What to Repurpose for More Storage

Posted by Angela Machetta on January 9, 2019 at 8:10 AM

One of the first steps in getting organized is making sure every item in your home has a designated place and space. Without a place for each item to go, clutter can creep up and quickly take over a space. More than likely some of the items cluttering your home could be used to create extra storage or organize items in your home.

We have a few ideas on items that could be a solution to calm the chaos of your clutter.

Baskets – Baskets and basket sets can often be found gently used at online auction sites like ctbids.com and estate sales awaiting a new home. Use baskets to corral stray items, place a decorative element, organize mail, store umbrellas, or add a touch of personality to your room or entryway.

Paper Sorters – Office supplies are frequently in abundance anywhere you find great preowned deals. When you consider using them outside of an office the possibilities are endless! Use a paper sorter in the entryway to hold reusable or paper shopping bags and gift bags. This universal item can also be used as a purse organizer in any closet.

Photo Frame – Have a few extra or unused frames you aren’t willing to part with? Consider using the frames to create tasteful storage alternatives. HGTV experts suggest using frames to bring order to “tangled jewelry by displaying your necklaces and bracelets neatly on the wall.” You could even create a charging station for your mobile devices, a framed chalk or message board.

Shelving Units – Repurposed bookcases, media stands and shelving units can add extra storage and display space to give wayward items a home. Use this space to display books or beautiful containers with the ability to house remotes, blankets or other frequently used items.

Bureaus, Cabinets and Buffets – There’s a plethora of options in this category at most estate sales and online auction sites. You can use a buffet to display more than what’s on the surface. Try assigning specific items like extra blankets or pillows to each drawer. Or repurpose your find to create an entertainment stand by removing the top drawers to house items like gaming consoles or a cable box.

Bar or Serving Cart – Do you entertain often? You can save space using an existing bar or serving cart to store the most common items needed for a dinner party or gathering. Use organizers for kitchen or bathroom cabinets to restructure the space you have within the cart. Better Homes and Gardens suggests using the cart to be “prepared for unexpected company,“ as well as store “[b]ottles, glassware, and serving utensils... Closed storage below lets you conceal miscellaneous items in a hurry.”

Mason Jars – A favorite of many for years, mason jars hold a wealth of storage and use opportunities. These jars can be used to store spices or dry goods like flour in a creative decorative way. Thekitchn.com suggests creating “a hanging trio of mason jars [that] keep[s] utensils just an arm's length away from stirring or scooping” as a solution to the messy utensil drawer.

Mugs or Small Pitchers – Dish and Glassware is often in abundance in online auctions and estate sales. They, like many other items on this list, are very versatile. Use a small stylish pitcher to stow common tools efficiently within reach of your cooking area to make food prep simpler. Mugs can be used as measuring cups or even used to grow fresh herbs and eventually save refrigerator space.

Ready to get started on your next repurposing project? If you don’t own one the items featured in this article, you can find great items like it on ctbids.com. Search any of the items on CTBids to take the first step toward purchasing a new storage item to repurpose.